Solar panels are becoming more and more recognizable, and the general population’s interest in using solar energy at home is rising. Homeowners are often concerned with the price of installing a solar power system. Solar heat systems are available to heat hot water, which differ from the solar photovoltaic systems which produce electricity for your home. For the average homeowner, solar heat is an affordable way to go solar and efficiently heat hot water for use in the home. There are many reasons why a solar heat system is a smart and affordable choice for homeowners. When considering upgrading your current hot water heater, or replacing an old model, “high-efficiency” gas or electric water heaters can still cost in the thousands of dollars with equipment and installation, and they don’t offer the yearly energy savings as a solar heat system. For many homeowners, the energy savings offered by a solar heat system is worth paying more initially for its installation, versus an electric or gas water heater. Plus, certain solar heat systems qualify for federal tax credits and even state or local incentives, which can further reduce your costs. A solar heat system uses approximately 80 percent less energy than a traditional gas or electric water heater. That significant reduction in energy consumption translates to over $500 per year for the average home. When you add savings from tax credits and other programs and your yearly reduction in energy costs, many homeowners find that a solar heat system can pay for itself in about 5 to 7 years. If you’re interested in a solar heat system for your home, don’t let cost stand in the way. Smith Sustainable Design works with our customers to find the right solar heat system for their needs and their budgets. Contact us today to explore your solar water heating options.